Beyoncé received a traditional welcome when her “Mrs. Carter Show World Tour” rolled through Auckland, New Zealand, last week. The local MÄori people greeted her backstage with the Haka ancestral war dance and she stepped up to the challenge.

A ferocious Bey made her best warrior face as she faced off with the intimidating crew, who responded by shouting and stamping their feet.

According to the video, the Haka is a traditional war dance meant to scare the opponent. It is also used to honor a distinguished guest (in this case Bey). The New Zealand All Blacks rugby team perform it before their international matches.